Baskets for Ben Fundraiser to feature auctions, raffles, entertainment and buffet

The Ben Osborn Memorial Fund is holding its annual Baskets for Ben fundraiser on Friday, Oct. 23, at Queensbury VFW Post 6196, 32 Luzerne Road, Queensbury. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. This is the event’s 15th year, featuring a silent auction and a live auction of donated baskets, a Wheelbarrow of Wine raffle, door prizes, entertainment, and a buffet of food and desserts donated by local restaurants.

The live auction begins at 6:30 p.m., with auctioneers Roy and Jaimee Ross taking bids on baskets filled with home goods, car needs, entertainment, overnight accommodations, art, food, spirits, crafts, golf packages, store and restaurant gift cards, and beauty and spa items.

Admission includes a buffet of food and desserts donated by local restaurants and grocers. The buffet will be served by SUNY Adirondack Culinary Arts students. Tickets are $25 per person. To purchase in advance, call 518-792-4514 or email benosbornfund@gmail.com.

All proceeds benefit the Ben Osborne Memorial Fund, a 501(c)(3) established in 2010 to honor the memory of CPL Benjamin Osborn, a Lake George graduate who was killed in combat while serving in the U.S. Army during Operation Enduring Freedom. Since its inception, the fund has helped thousands of children in 64 school districts across Warren, Washington, Saratoga and Essex Counties.

In a press release, the organization says, “It is our mission and hope that the values of Discipline and Pride will be encouraged and passed on through Ben’s legacy. In honoring Ben Osborn, whose selfless sacrifice and service to our country has inspired us, we wish to help by ‘Giving Kids a Little Lift.’  We welcome all and ask your help to continue our mission of helping local children with need.” The Ben Osborn Memorial Fund has multiple programs, including a holiday giving program, scholarships for seniors, Ben’s Book Stations literacy program, and a Hygiene Kit Initiative. The fund is run by volunteers and incurs no administrative costs.